A community that honors the inherent dignity of all, where indidviduals, especially the most vulunerable, are safe, respected and included.

Community Inn-Reach and Free Store

Five key area of support that are provided by the Inn-Reach worker to clients are:

1. HousingClose

The Inn-Reach worker provides assistance in accessing transitional housing as well as finding appropriate market housing. For transitional housing, the Inn-Reach worker provides referrals to appropriate housing programs, and clients are provided education and access to computer and online listings of market housing. In the pursuit of market rentals, the in-reach worker provides support and education regarding how to speak with landlords (i.e. questions to ask potential landlords, or how to discuss welfare appropriately, etc.), transportation, and access to funds for damage deposits or rental supplements.

2. Medical ResourcesClose

The Inn-Reach worker directs clients to appropriate medical resources, makes appointments, and assists with transportation if mobility is a barrier for a particular client. Additional support is provided when follow up is required by a physician, i.e. blood tests, x-rays, etc.

3. Mental HealthClose

The Inn-Reach worker is able to provide referrals to mental health services, however the majority of the work done with clients is motivational interviewing and solution-focused discussion to combat the stigmatization of mental illness and to refocus on the ‘bigger picture’ of wellness. In reaction to high levels of apprehension and anxiety, the in-reach worker accompanies many clients to their appointments until a trusting relationship is established with the mental health agency/staff.

4. Addictions TreatmentClose

If a client struggles with substance addiction but is not treatment ready, the Inn-Reach worker discusses harm reduction practices to reduce the amount of harm experienced by the client in relation to their substance use, as well as uses motivational interviewing techniques to inspire and encourage the client to pursue a healthier lifestyle in relation to their goals. Once a client is ready and committed to accessing treatment, the Inn-Reach worker provides referrals to A&D counselors, support groups, detox, and treatment centres.

5. Ministry of Social DevelopmentClose

The in-reach worker provides assistance in applying for income assistance, nutritional supplement allowance, public transportation program, etc. The Inn-Reach worker also provides transportation, accompaniment to interviews, and acts as a liaison between clients and the ministry.

Free Store

Our free store is an organic evolution of our shelter and Inn-Reach programs. Our generous community provides us with an abundance of donations, particularity during the winter months. Our shelter has very little space in which to store theses donations. As such, we have partner together with Metro Community to run a clothing store for individuals experiencing, or at risk of homelessness in our community. This volunteer-based store provides people with access to clothing at no cost, and is open Monday-Friday, 10am-12pm.

The Free Store space is filled with clothing, outdoor gear and toiletries that is available to both the guests of our community shelters and the community at large. This store has been a great engagement point for those in the community needing access to community information and Inn-Reach support as well.

Material Goods Donation

Many of the individuals we support are without food, clothing, and toiletries. You can support our cause by bringing these items to our Free Store.

Please bring all donations to our office at #109 – 1262 St. Paul Street from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. As we are a busy team, please call 778-363-6404 before dropping anything off.

Acceptable donation items:

FOODsee all

FOOD

Sugar

Hot Chocolate

Oatmeal

Peanut Butter

Jam

Canned Fish

Fruit

Soup

Granola Bars

Granola/ Cereal/ Oatmeal

Juice boxes

Ensure/Boost

Water bottles

Energy Bars

Fruit Snacks

CLOTHESsee all

CLOTHES

Socks

Underwear / Long Underwear

Sweaters

Jackets

Boots

Gloves & mitts

Hats

Scarves

Water proof pants/ Rain Gear

Pants

Coats

Shirts

TOILETRIESsee all

TOILETRIES

Toothbrushes

Toothpaste

Feminine hygiene products

Razors and Shaving Cream

Q-tips

Paper Towels/ Tissue Paper/ Toilet Paper

Shampoo and Conditioner

Sunscreen

Lip Balm

MISCSee all

MISC

Sleeping bags

Tarps

Tents

Hot shots (hand warmers)

Earplugs

Quilts

Cough Drops

Bus Tickets

Towels

Please note: We do not accept pillows & sheets as they are provided by Interior Health.